Looking at the huge amount of debt many students have when they graduate from college has me thinking of all the jobs and careers available that don't require a four-year college degree or even a masters degree.
Many students or their parents have an approximate debt of $32,000 to $50,000 for a four-year degree. If one went to a prestigious college, that debt could be well over $100,000. For instance a four-year degree from Yale would cost approximately $300,000 with no financial aid or scholarships. A four-year degree from Stanford would cost about $288,000 and the University of Southern California is approximately $300,000 for a four-year degree.
As one can see, a four-year degree from these prestigious institutions could have a huge financial impact to either a student or their family. Many people buy houses that cost less than these.
It is no wonder that many students are pursuing careers that don't require an expensive degree. We looked at a few careers last week, and here are more suggestions.
In many cases, specific classes, certificates or exams are required for the position, but not a bachelor's degree or a four-year commitment.
Many of the best salespeople I have met throughout my life have not had four-year college degrees. What seems to be required is personality and interest in the product being sold.
I'm sure you've heard the old saying, "he could sell ice in the frozen north." Most successful salespeople are very extroverted, love people and love to share their passions with others.
Real estate agents can make excellent commissions. One must take real estate classes and then pass an exam in order to receive a license to sell.
Because real estate agents depend upon commissions, the compensation received can vary from state to state. An agent can make from $40,000 per year to over $100,000 per year.
This can be a lucrative career that would only take a few months of studying before getting a license. Of course, a first year agent won't make as much money as an experienced agent (https://www.forbes.com/sites/andrewdepietro/2019/01/28/real-estate-agents-salary-state/#76f44b703e58).
Many classes required for certificate or licensing programs can be taken from one's own computer.
Another lucrative career is that of an air traffic controller. This is a very stressful job, but from what I've been told, it is also a fulfilling career. A high school diploma and job experience are required, as well as an air traffic control tower operator certificate.
About 20 percent of air traffic controllers have a four-year degree. Many air traffic controllers learn this skill in the military. The average salary of an air traffic controller is $120,000 per year.
Other careers that don't require an expensive four-year degree are:
•insurance claims adjusters.
•auto insurance appraisers.
•IT specialists.
•website developers.
•mail carriers and postmasters.
•payroll or accounting clerks.
•commercial pilots.
These are just a few of the jobs that are available, not just here in Crestview but all over the country. These jobs provide a good living and don't require a huge amount of debt to enter the career.
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Think about what you'd like to do with your life and discuss all the options with your parents, school counselor and even your friends. If you find a job you think you'd like, talk with people in that position and ask for the good and bad about the job.
I hate to think of anyone having to pay back $50,000 or more in student loans. I will let you know of some relatively inexpensive ways to get a four-year degree here in Northwest Florida.
Janice Lynn Crose, a former accountant, lives in Crestview with her husband, Jim; her two rescue collies, Shane and Jasmine; and two cats, Kathryn and Prince Valiant.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: HAPPENINGS: Here are some more jobs that don't require a degree